Yugawara Onsen has a long history, famed as the only hot spring mentioned in the ancient Manyoshu poetry collection. In medieval times, it was cherished by samurai and villagers alike, and during the Edo period it became known nationwide as the “Healing Spring” for wounds. Writers, artists, and politicians were drawn to its waters, and…

As the largest metropolis on the planet, it is difficult to imagine that there could ever be a lack of something to do in the city. That said, there is always room for new activities and Tokyo has many unique entertainment and experience options available to satisfy just about everyone. Below are just a few…

Japan is one of the biggest global markets for tuna, be it fresh, frozen or canned. But with a population close to 128 million, it is impossible for local commerce to meet the fierce demand. In 2012 alone, Japan imported 247,160 tons of tuna and for countries around the world, exporting this delicious fish is…

Culturally, Japan is probably one of the most different countries compared to the United States. Due to this, there are many things that are important to know before visiting Japan; both in terms of laws and culturally acceptable and unacceptable behaviors. Many people are very surprised when they visit Japan, finding it vastly different than…

Japan is famous for having hundreds of thousands of matsuri (festivals) every year, and summer is no exception. These matsuri are traditional cultural events, some of them hundreds of years old. They stem from a fusion of ancient Japanese Shinto religion and Buddhism called Obon. Summer matsuri are unique, as they have often have exciting…

History Tracing its origins back to China, miso is thought to have been introduced to Japan about 1,200 or 1,300 years ago. The mixtures of beans, grains and salt was an efficient means of preservation in warmer temperatures. Originally a delicacy enjoyed only by the extremely wealthy, it became a staple for samurai, thanks to…

Yakatabune are traditional restaurant boats that trace their history back to the Heian Period (794- 1185). Many courses are served on a traditional yakatabune, typically accompanied with freshly fried tempura. This classic dining experience is being reimagined at Sushi Origami. Sushi Origami offers the finest Edomae-style sushi on a yakatabune, supervised by the popular Sushi…

“The 5th EXPAT EXPO TOKYO 2024”, the only exhibition for foreigners living in Japan will be held on November 8th (Fri) and 9th (Sat) at the Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center Hamamatsucho-kan, with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minato city, the Japan National Tourism Organization, and France and other countries chamber of…

Located on the northeastern edge of Japan’s Kyushu Island, Oita Prefecture — or the onsen mecca, as it’s sometimes known — has many features that draws in visitors from all over the world. Characterized by its hot, balmy summers yet mild, chilly winters, the area is chock full of sightseeing and tourist hotspots. One of…

“BANKSY~GENIUS OR VANDAL?”, the exhibition that has caught the attention of over 300 million people in Moscow, Madrid, Hong Jong, New York and L.A. since 2018, is finally landing in Japan. Banksy Exhibition: Genius or Vandal will be held from December 12, 2021 (Sun) to March 8, 2022 (Tue) at WITH HARAJUKU, located in front…